'Arrogant' England had no chance says Graham Taylor

Graham Taylor believes a perception of England as "arrogant" and "know-alls" ended their hopes of winning the 2018 World Cup but thinks their dismal showing in the voting could prompt investigations into the running of FIFA.

Former England manager Taylor was unsurprised by England's failure to secure the hosting rights for the competition, which instead went to Russia, but insists the haul of just two votes from 22 could see FIFA placed under new scrutiny.

England's bid was roundly commended for its technical quality and readiness to host an effective and profitable World Cup but aside from their own vote, delivered by former FA Chairman Geoff Thompson, they gained the support of just one more FIFA representative.

Taylor, speaking to Radio Five Live, said: "I ask the question 'what were we expecting?'. FIFA, for me, is full of people who say 'yes' to your face and 'no' behind your back. Their reputation has not changed for many years.

"We (England) have little or no influence; we are considered to be arrogant and know-alls and FIFA don't have to answer to anyone.

"I'm surprised that we're surprised. This has been going on for years and we've been aware of a lot of things going on around the back."

British media investigations into FIFA practices and the conduct of influential members have been cited as one of the reasons England fared so badly in the voting, but Taylor believes they could yet come into their own.

"I have a feeling, perhaps, that it might be time...that they really need looking into and investigating and our journalists are very good at that.

"How long has this been going on? How long have been questions been asked of FIFA and when have they answered them?

"You don't want take away from Russia or Qatar but it may be that this is the trigger for it to get looked into."